RF Stability E

Version
March 2009

Add-on Module
RF-STABILITY
Critical Load Factors
Buckling Modes

Program Description

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No portion of this book may be reproduced mechanically,
electronically, or by any other means, including photocopying
without written permission of DLUBAL ENGINEERING SOFTWARE.

Dlubal Engineering Software
Am Zellweg 2 D-93464 Tiefenbach
Tel: +49 (0) 9673 9203-0
Fax: +49 (0) 9673 1770
E-mail: info@dlubal.com
Web: www.dlubal.com

Program RF-STABILITY 2009 by Dlubal Engineering Software

3
Contents
Contents Page Contents Page
1. Introduction 4
1.1 Add-on Module RF-STABILITY 4
1.2 RF-STABILITY Team 5
1.3 Note to Manual 5
1.4 Starting RF-STABILITY 6
2. Input Data 8
2.1 General Data 8
3. Calculation 11
3.1 Check 11
3.2 Calculation Start 11
4. Results 13
4.1 Critical Load Factors 13
4.2 Buckling Lengths and Loads 15
4.3 Eigenvectors by Node 16
4.4 Eigenvectors by Member 18
4.5 Eigenvectors by Surface 19
5. Evaluating Results 20
5.1 Result Masks 20
5.2 Graphic Display of Results 21
5.3 Filtering Results 23
6. Output 24
6.1 Printout Report 24
6.2 Printing RF-STABILITY Graphics 25
7. General Functions 26
7.1 Cases in RF-STABILITY 26
7.2 Units and Decimal Places 28
7.3 Exporting Results 28
8. Examples 31
8.1 Square Plate 31
8.2 Circular Plate 35
8.3 Tapered Cantilever 37
A Literature 40
B Index 41

1 Introduction

4
1. Introduction

1.1 Add-on Module RF-STABILITY
The add-on module RF-STABILITY of the main program RFEM is used for the calculation of
critical load factors and corresponding buckling modes at member and surface structures.
The results then form a basis for the stability design of members stressed by compression,
that is usually carried out for a structure together with the general stress design.
The critical load factor of the whole structure determines the rate of system stability threat.
The corresponding buckling mode predicates a region in a static model where the risk of
stability violation exists. The RF-STABILITY module enables to design several buckling modes
at the same time. Hence the user views the governing failure modes of a designed member
or surface sorted according to the critical load factor.
The graphic display of buckling modes is useful to identify threatened regions in a structure
and to make out possible structural arrangements targeted to prevent this failure. Hence
the RF-STABILITY module presents a very useful tool for the design of structures endangered
by buckling, e.g. slender girders and thin-walled shells. On the basis of the determined criti-
cal load factor it is firstly possible to design whether the structural stability is threatened
(design of buckling, lateral buckling and plate buckling). Secondly, possible imperfections
can be derived from the determined critical (lowest) buckling modes.
RF-STABILITY functional characteristics are:
Determination of several buckling modes simultaneously in one calculation cycle.
Automatic transfer of axial forces from a load case or load group entered in the main
program RFEM.
Possiblity to consider relieving actions of tension forces.
Option to take into account actions of axial forces from a certain load case or load
group in RFEM as the initial prestress.
Effective equation methods for calculation of eigenvalues: the subspace iteration me-
thod for standard cases or the ICG (incomplete conjugate gradient) method that is
applied in case of extensive structures with high RAM demands, at great bandwidth
or in case of a large number of determined eigenmodes.
Tabular display of the critical load factors and corresponding buckling modes.
Graphic representation of a buckling mode using isosurfaces and isolines in the RFEM
graphic interface.
Integration into the RFEM printout report where all changes are updated automati-
cally.
Possibility to use the buckling modes in the add-on modules RF-IMP, RF-KAPPA and
RF-TIMBER Pro.
Direct data export to MS Excel.

We wish you much success and delight when working with our module RF-STABILITY.
Your DLUBAL ENGINEERING SOFTWARE team.

1 Introduction

1.2 RF-STABILITY Team
The following people participated in the development of the RF-STABILITY module:
Program Coordinators
Dipl.-Ing. Georg Dlubal
Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Younes El Frem
Programmers
Doc. Dr.-Ing. Ivan Nmec
Dr.-Ing. Radoslav Rusina
Ing. Ji Doleal
Ing. Michal Balvon
Ing. Rostislav Totzauer
Ing. Petr Hork
Dr. Zbynk Vlk
Ing. Roman Svoboda
Design of Program, Dialogs and Icons
Dipl.-Ing. Georg Dlubal Ing. Jan Mil
Testing
Ing. Martin Vasek Ing. Vclav Rek
Manuals, Documentation and Translations
Dipl.-Ing. Frank Faulstich
Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Robert Vogl
Ing. Dmitry Bystrov
Ing. Ladislav Kbrt
Mgr. Petra Pokorn
Mgr. Michaela Krykov
Technical Support and Final Control
Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Andr Bergholz
Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Matthias Entenmann
Dipl.-Ing. Frank Faulstich
Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Ren Flori
M.Sc. Dipl.-Ing. Frank Lobisch
Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Alexander Meierhofer
Dipl.-Ing. (BA) Andreas Niemeier
Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Walter Rustler
M. Sc. Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Frank Sonntag
Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Christian Stautner
Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Robert Vogl
Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Anke Voggenreiter

1.3 Note to Manual
All general topics such as installation, user interface, evaluation of results and output are
described in detail in the RFEM manual, hence we omit them in this manual. On the con-
trary, we focus concentration on typical features of the add-on module RF-STABILITY.
During the description of RF-STABILITY, we use the sequence and structure of the input and
output masks. We feature the described icons (buttons) in square brackets, e.g. [Details].
The buttons are simultaneously displayed on the left margin. The names of dialogs, masks
and particular menus are marked in italics in the text so that they can be easily found in the
program.
We also put into this manual the index for fast finding of some terms. If you should not
find the requested ones, please use the search function on our website www.dlubal.com
to browse the FAQ list.

5

1 Introduction

1.4 Starting RF-STABILITY
In RFEM, it is possible to initialize the add-on module RF-STABILITY in several ways.
Main Menu
You can call up RF-STABILITY by the command from the main menu of the RFEM program
Additional Modules Stability RF-STABILITY

Figure 1.1: Main menu of RFEM: Additional Modules Stability RF-STABILITY
Navigator
Further, it is possible to start RF-STABILITY from the Data navigator by clicking the item
Additional Modules RF-STABILITY.

Figure 1.2: Data navigator : Additional Modules RF-STABILITY
6
1 Introduction

Panel
If results from RF-STABILITY are already available in a certain RFEM case, you can set the
given case from this module in the list of load cases. The buckling modes can be displayed
on the model in the graphics using the [Results on/off] button.

The [RF-STABILITY] button to access RF-STABILITY is now available in the panel.

Figure 1.3: Panel: [RF-STABILITY] button
7

2 Input Data

2. Input Data
All data to define stability cases is entered in a single input mask.
After initialization of the RF-STABILITY module a new window is displayed. In its left part
you can see the navigator for access to all currently accessible input and output masks. The
roll-out list of all possibly entered stability cases is located above the navigator (see Chapter
7.1, page 26).
If RF-STABILITY is started in a given case in RFEM for the first time, then already created load
cases and load groups are automatically loaded in the add-on module.
You save entered data by the [OK] button and close the RF-STABILITY module, while by the
[Cancel] button you terminate the module without data saving.

2.1 General Data
In the mask 1.1 General Data all the parameters for stability design are set.

Figure 2.1: Mask 1.1 General Data
General
Number of Eigenvalues
RF-STABILITY calculates the least favourable structural stability modes. Their number is de-
termined in this input field. At present, it is possible to calculate the 999 lowest eigenvalues
of a structure.
The calculation theory generally does not permit to omit lower buckling shapes during the
analysis and simultaneously calculate higher eigenvalues.
8
2 Input Data

If negative critical load factors make the design result, the number of determined stability
shapes should be increased adequately. In case that the entered number is too small, it is
not possible to discard negative eigenvalues and to display only positive, realistic results. If
you want to avoid negative critical load factors, you can alternatively use the method of
conjugate gradients for analysis (later in this manual).

Stiffness Reduction
Using this check box you can determine whether the safety factors of used materials will be
considered during the eigenvalue analysis. You can obtain the corresponding stiffness re-
duction by these factors. If you want to calculate eigenvalues as "characteristic" structural
feature, it is not necessary to consider
M
values of relevant materials.
Eigenvalue Calculation Method
You can use two calculation methods for the stability design.
Sub Space Iteration Method
During the subspace iteration method the stiffness matrix is saved in the computer RAM
memory. When it is full, data are saved on the hard disk. Hence the computer is markedly
slowed down. Therefore this method is not suitable for extensive structures.
An advantage of this method is that all eigenvalues are calculated in one step. The band-
width of stiffness matrix has considerable influence on calculation duration.
This method should be applied in case of small and medium size structures, at which a
large number of eigenvalues is necessary to calculate. At the same time you must realize
that also negative critical load factors can form the calculation result.

ICG-iteration Method
The method of conjugate gradients ICG (Incomplete Conjugate Gradient) does not impose
high requirements on RAM. Only stiffness matrix coefficients that are not equal to zero are
saved.
A disadvantage is that eigenvalues are calculated in sequence. The bandwidth has no influ-
ence on calculation duration.
This method should be applied in case of extensive structures, at which a smaller number of
eigenvalues is determined. Negative critical load factors are not displayed after the calcula-
tion by this method, because the iteration proceeds until the prescribed number of positive
eigenvalues is reached.

Axial Forces
You can select a load case or load group whose axial forces should be considered during
the calculation of the eigenmode. This load case or load group should be calculated accord-
ing to linear first order theory.

If you do not have available results for a given load case or load group, these are calculated
automatically before the proper stability design.
Consider Tension Force Effect
If you tick this box, also axial tension forces acting in a structure are considered during the
calculation. Tension forces generally stabilize a structure.
Consider Axial Forces as Prestress
If you tick this box, you can select a load case or load group whose axial forces should be
used as initial deformation. This option makes it for instance possible to consider the stabi-
lizing influence of another load case (i.e. different from the load case entered earlier in the
Axial Forces section) during the eigenvalue calculation.

9

2 Input Data

Non-linear Analysis
If the stability design should run on the basis of the non-linear analysis, it is necessary to
tick this box. By doing this, the button [Edit Calculation Parameters...] becomes accessible
and you can open the following dialog:

Figure 2.2: The Analysis Options dialog
The large deformation analysis according to NEWTON-RAPHSON is set by default and you can
not change this option. Other parameters in this dialog are described in Chapter 8.3 Calcu-
lation Parameters in the manual to the main program RFEM on page 258.
In this method, the load is gradually increased instead of the linear eigenvalue analysis. The
structure looses stability at a certain load. The critical load factor is determined in this way.
In the instant of stability loss the linear analysis of eigenvalues is carried out on the struc-
ture to determine the eigenmode.
An advantage of this procedure is that you can exactly consider all non-linear elements
(failed members or foundation etc.) during the calculation of the critical load factor. How-
ever, a disadvantage of this method is that you can always calculate exactly only the lowest
eigenvalue. Moreover, the calculation lasts longer than for a linear analysis.
Comment
In this entry field you can write down your own remark, e.g. a detailed description of a cur-
rent RF-STABILITY case. This comment is also shown in the printout report.
10
3 Calculation

3. Calculation
Run the calulation by clicking the [Calculate] button. The stability design is carried out and
axial forces entered in the mask 1.1 are taken into account.
3.1 Check
Before starting the calculation we recommend to quickly check the plausibility of all input
data. You start the control using the [Check] button.
In case the program does not find any inconsistency, the relevant notification is displayed.

Figure 3.1: The result of plausibility check
3.2 Calculation Start
Start the calculation using the [Calculate] button.

RF-STABILITY firstly finds axial forces that should be considered. If there are no results for a
given load case or load group available, the calculation of the corresponding axial forces is
run automatically, based on the calculation parameters entered in RFEM.
The calculation of RF-STABILITY results can be also started from the user interface of the
main program RFEM. Cases entered in add-on modules are displayed in the dialog To Calcu-
late similar to load cases or load groups. You open this dialog in RFEM by the command
from the main menu
Calculate To Calculate....

Figure 3.2: Dialog To Calculate
11
3 Calculation

If the RF-STABILITY cases are missing in the list Not Calculated, it is necessary to tick the box
Show Additional Modules.
You transfer selected stability cases to the list on the right by the [] button. The calcula-
tion is then started using the [Calculate] button.

The calculation of a certain RF-STABILITY case can be also run directly from the toolbar. You
set the required stability case in the list and then click the button [Results on/off].

Figure 3.3: Direct calculation of a RF-STABILITY case in RFEM
The dialog where you can see the progress of the stability design is displayed consequently.

Figure 3.4: Calculation in RF-STABILITY
During the calculation via the subspace iteration method, the so-called Sturm Sequence
Test proceeds, as you can see in the preceding picture. This test verifies whether some ei-
genvalue was not omitted in a certain interval. The diagonal matrix from the Gauss decom-
position is used, where the number of negative diagonal matrix elements corresponds to
the number of eigenvalues within the relevant interval. The Sturm test is thus carried out for
the given limits of the interval. Then the difference is determined.
12
4 Results

4. Results

The mask 2.1 Critical Load Factors is displayed immediately after the calculation is over. In
the result masks 2.1 to 2.5 the summary of particular analyses is shown together with
comments. All masks are accessible from the RF-STABILITY navigator. To browse among
separate masks you can also use the buttons displayed on the left or functional keys [F2]
and [F3].

You save the results by the [OK] button and close the RF-STABILITY module.
We describe in this chapter the individual masks gradually in their sequence. The check and
interpretation of results is treated in Chapter 5 Evaluation of Results on page 20.
4.1 Critical Load Factors

Figure 4.1: Mask 2.1 Critical Load Factors
The first result mask informs about critical load factors of a given structure. Values are
ranked according to eigenvalues.
Vector No.
Critical load factors and magnification factors are displayed for each eigenvalue. Results are
ranked upwardly according to the stability shape number.
Critical Load Factor
The critical load factor
Ki
is shown in the mask for every eigenvalue. A factor lower than
1.00 implies structural instability. Any factor greater than 1.00 means that the load due to
entered axial forces multiplied by this factor leads to failure of the structure due to buckling
or plate buckling.
According to DIN 18800, part 2, critical load factors lower than 10 require the calculation
after non-linear second order theory.
13

4 Results

Figure 4.2: Warning after the calculation in case of negative eigenvalues
If the calculation proceeded via the subspace iteration method, negative critical load factors
may be issued. Hence for the given eigenvalues no stability problem occurs due to tension
forces and it is not possible to evaluate the plate buckling or buckling behavior.

Magnification Factor
The magnification factor is calculated using the following equation:
Ki
1
1
1
=
Equation 4.1: Magnification factor
This magnification factor expresses the relation between the moments according to linear
first order and non-linear second order theory.
I II
M M =
where M
I
moment according to first order theory, but equivalent load for
deformation is considered
M
II
moment according to second order theory
Equation 4.2: Moment ratio
This equation is valid only in case that the bending line during load application is getting
near the buckling shape and that
Ki
is greater than 1.00.
Message
Under certain circumstances, a message appears in column C that a negative critical load
factor was calculated. This means: If the entered loads act in the opposite direction (oppo-
site sign), failure due to buckling or plate buckling would occur.
This problem can be eliminated by increasing the number of determined eigenvalues or by
applying the conjugate gradient method.
14
4 Results

4.2 Buckling Lengths and Loads

Figure 4.3: Mask 2.2 Buckling Lengths and Loads
This result mask is displayed if the structure contains members. Buckling lengths and critical
loads can be listed according to Member Numbering or Eigenvector Numbering.
Member No.
The results of buckling design are displayed for all members in the structure.
Node No. - Start / End
Every member is defined by its start and end node. Their numbers are shown in two corres-
ponding columns.
Member Length l
The geometric length of every member is displayed in this column for checking purposes.
Buckling Length s
crit,y
/ s
crit,z

The buckling lengths s
crit
are related to the critical forces N
crit
of each member as stated in
the last table column. These forces also depend on the corresponding critical load of the
entire model. In simple cases, the buckling lengths represent the EULER cases 1 to 4. There-
fore the buckling lengths are related to the ratio of axial forces in the member and the total
critical load.
The buckling length s
crit,y
is related to the buckling perpendicularly to the "principal" mem-
ber axis y, whereas s
crit,z
is related to the buckling perpendicularly to "secondary" member
axis z.
Buckling Coefficient
y
/
z

The buckling length coefficients express the ratio between the buckling length and member
length with respect to the local member axes y and z.
15

4 Results

l
Equation 4.3: Buckling lenght coefficient
s
K
=
Buckling Load N
crit

as calculated with respect to the
and corresponding buckling
lengths must be always considered in context of the given critical load of the whole model.
In this column the critical axial force N
crit
is shown that w
corresponding eigenmode. It means that all critical loads
4.3 Eigenvectors by Node

3 Eigenvectors by Node
ined in the mask 1.1
in FE nodes nor in member
.
/ u
ystem. They are normed for every direction to the maximum 1.
Figure 4.4: Mask 2.
The displacements and rotations of structural nodes are shown in this mask for every buck-
ling mode.
Node No.
The buckling shapes are displayed in the list for structural objects def
Nodes in the main program RFEM. Therefore neither the results
division points are shown in the table
Vector No.
The deformations are shown for every calculated eigenvector .
Displacements u / u
X Y Z
The columns B to D contain lists of displacements that are related to the axes of the global
coordinate s
Rotations / /
X Y Z
In the columns E to G the corresponding nodal rotations of the normed displacements are
displayed.
16
4 Results

The tabular data can be sorted according to Node Numbering or Eigenvector Numbering.
If only zero values are displayed in the column with normed displacements of the member

structure, it generally refers to considerable torsion in members themselves (cp. the follow-
ing picture). Because this phenomenon has no influence on the displacement of member
end nodes, neither displayed buckling lengths nor critical forces possess a great significance
for given members.

Figure 4.5: Torsion of the thin-walled column with a rectangular cross-section
17

4 Results

4.4 Eigenvectors by Member

Figure 4.6: Mask 2.4 Eigenvectors by Member
This result mask is displayed if there are members in the structural model.
The individual columns are explained in Chapter 4.3 on page 16. Additionally, the Location
x on the member is displayed where the corresponding start or end node is situated.
18
4 Results

4.5 Eigenvectors by Surface

se that the structure contains surfaces. The eigenmodes in
the table can be sorted according to Surface Numbering or Eigenvector Numbering.
ed in the Grid reg-
spacing of 50 cm
fault for the results.
tion of grid points in the global coordinate system is defined.
Z

displacements that are related to the axes of the
for every direction to the maximum 1.
X Y
/
Z

Figure 4.7: Mask 2.5 Eigenvectors by Surface
This mask is displayed only in ca
Point No.
The data are displayed for every surface grid point. Settings can be execut
ister in the Edit Surface dialog for every surface individually. The grid with
among the points is set by de
Location X / Y / Z
In the columns B to D the loca
Displacements u
X
/ u
Y
/ u
In the columns F to H is shown the list of
global coordinate system and normed
Rotations /
In the columns I to K the corresponding nodal rotations of the normed displacements are
displayed.
19

5 Evaluating Results

20
5. Evaluating Results
As soon as the design ends, several possibilities for evaluation of results are offered. For
graphic interpretation you have the RFEM work window available.
5.1 Result Masks
At first after the calculation is displayed the mask 2.1 Critical Load Factors: negative critical
load factors indicate that due to tension axial forces it was impossible to determine struc-
tural failure via buckling of plate buckling. It means that in case of the same load action in

the opposite direction (opposite sign) failure via buckling or plate buckling would occur. A
high number of negative critical load factors implies that the structure is mainly stressed by
tension.

Figure 5.1: Negative critical load factors
This problem can be solved by increasing the number of determined eigenvalues or by ap-
than 1.00 means that the model is instable.

plying the conjugate gradient method.
Any critical load factor lower

Figure 5.2: Instable model
Only a positive critical load factor greater than 1.00 allows for the following conclusion: If
you multiply the load due to axial forces by this factor, failure of the stable structure due to
buckling or plate buckling occurs.
For members, different buckling length coefficients are displayed for particular buckling
modes in the mask 2.2.

Figure 5.3: Buckling length coefficients for members

21

.
which makes it possi-
o
e several buckling shapes. Only
ents are identical.
sets of members in
ers. The member at which
g in a member set.
th of this member and from the
During the analysis, axial forces are iteratively increased till the critical load case is reached
From the given critical load factor the critical force is then calculated,
ble to determine retroactively the buckling lenghts and buckling length coefficients.
If you want to find out the governing buckling length coefficient
y
for buckling vertically t
the "strong" member axis, it is usually necessary to calculat
for square cross-sections the buckling lengths and buckling length coeffici
It is not possible to directly calculate the buckling length coefficients for
RF-STABILITY. You can analyze only results for individual memb
the minimum critical force N
cr
is displayed can be considered as governin
The values can be then calculated from the buckling leng
total length of the member set.
5.2 Graphic Display of Results
The stability behavior of a structure can be well observed on a graphic
buckling shapes. The work window of the main program RFEM is used fo
uation of the eigenvalues. After clicking the [Graphic] button the RF-S
closed. The buckling shapes are then graphically displayed

display of different
r the graphic eval-
TABILITY module is
in the RFEM work window similar
to the deformations of a load case.
The current RF-STABILITY case is set by default. In the left part of the screen you see the
modified navigator Results.

tor for RF-STABILITY
of stability modes can be displayed as results. You can also view a partic-
of the total displacement or rotation.
ns and Values on Surfaces can be also used for the graphic evaluation of
. These functions are described in detail in the RFEM manual, Chapter 10.6
page 319 and following.
As in case of the deformations for an RFEM load case you can activate or deactivate the
display of stability modes using the [Results on/off] button. Using the button on the right
[Show Result Values] you can set the display of result values in the picture.
Regarding the fact that RFEM tables are not important for the evaluation of RF-STABILITY
results, you can deactivate them using the button shown on the left.
apted to the RF-STABILITY module. The panel stan-
dard functions are described in detail in the RFEM manual, Chapter 4.4.6 on page 77 and
Figure 5.4: Results naviga
The Deformations
ular component
The options Sectio
stability shapes
and 10.4 on
Both navigator and control panel are ad
following.


Figure 5.5: RF-STABILITY panel
In the second register of the control panel you can select particular eigenmodes.

Figure 5.6: Selection of eigenshapes in the panel
At more complex structures it is often impossible to make out at first glance the buckling
members or surfaces. You discern them better if you increase the Deformation factor in the
second register of the control panel. Also can be helpful the an

imation of deformations
efault.
Two remaining options are used to view behavior of the stucture at buckling.
which is activated by clicking the button shown on the left.
The display of results on the member can be set in the Display navigator in the item
Results Deformation Members. The buckling shapes are displayed as Lines by d
22

Figure 5.7: Display navigator: Results Deformation Cross-sections Colored
All graphic displays of results from RF-STABILITY can be integrated in the printout report,
just like the RFEM images (see Chapter 6.2, page 25).
You can again open the RF-STABILITY module by clicking the [RF-STABILITY] button in the
control panel.
5.3 Filtering Results
Besides the RF-STABILITY tables, that enable to select results according to certain criteria
due to their structure, you can use for graphic evaluation of results the filtering functions,
which are described in the manual of the main program RFEM.
Firstly, you can use already defined partial views (cp. the RFEM manual, Chapter 10.8.1,
page 333) that suitably group certain objects. Also existing or new sections can be used to

23
evaluate particular results (cp. the RFEM manual, Chapter 10.6, page 326).
Secondly, you can set standardized deformations as a criterion for filtering of results on the
RFEM workspace. The setting of filters that you can perform in the Color Spectrum register
is described in Chapter 4.4.6 of the RFEM manual on page 77.
In case of the colored display of results you can for example set in the panel to view only
standardized deformations greater than 0.55. Hence you can more easily distinguish in an
extensive structural model the surfaces and members endangered by stability loss.
Filtering of Surfaces and Members
In the Filters register of the control panel you can enter the numbers of members or surfac-
es whose deformations you wish to display in a graphic window. This function is described
in detail in the RFEM manual, Chapter 4.4.6 on page 80.
Contrary to the partial view function, the entire structure is displayed here.

6 Output

6. Output

6.1 Printout Report
Just like in the RFEM case, at first for RF-STABILITY data the printout report is created,
where you can insert graphic displays or your own comments. In the print preview you can
also choose which results of stability analyses are to be printed.
In case of extensive structures we recommend to create a few smaller printout reports in-
stead of one large protocol. If you create a separate protocol only for RF-STABILITY data,
the printout report can be processed relatively quickly.

The printout report is described in detail in the RFEM manual. Particularly important is
Chapter 11.1.3.4 Selection of Add-on Modules Data on page 350 that deals with selection
of input and output data in add-on modules.

Figure 6.1: Print preview of the printout report
24
6 Output

6.2 Printing RF-STABILITY Graphics
Graphic displays of performed analyses can be integrated in the printout report or sent di-
rectly to the printer. The printing of graphics is described in detail in Chapter 11.2 of the
RFEM manual.
25
Every picture that is displayed in the RFEM graphic window can be inserted to the printout
report. Also the sections or result diagrams on members can be transferred to the protocol
by clicking the [Print] button in the respective window.

The current graphic display from RF-STABILITY in the RFEM work window can be printed by
the command from the main menu
File Print ...
or by clicking the corresponding button in the toolbar.

Figure 6.2: Print button in the main window toolbar

Figure 6.3: Print button in the toolbar in the window with result diagrams
The following dialog opens:

Figure 6.4: Graphic Printout dialog, the General register
This dialog is described in detail in Chapter 11.2 on page 368 in the RFEM manual. The oth-
er two registers Options and Color Spectrum are explained there as well.
The graphic display from RF-STABILITY in the printout report can be moved to a different
position using the Drag&Drop function. Inserted pictures can be modified subsequently:
you right-click the corresponding item in the protocol navigator and select Properties. The
Graphic Printout dialog is again displayed where you can set possible changes.

7 General Functions

Figure 6.5: The Graphic Printout dialog, the Options register
7. General Functions
In this chapter are described commonly used functions from the main menu and also op-
tions for export of design results.
7.1 Cases in RF-STABILITY
You can design the structure in different stability cases. For example, you can analyze influ-
ence of axial forces from various load cases or load groups as initial prestress or without
prestress.
The cases created in RF-STABILITY are included in the list of load cases and load groups in
the toolbar in the RFEM work window.

Create New RF-STABILITY Case
A new stability case can be created by the command from the RF-STABILITY main menu
File New Case ...
The following dialog opens:

Figure 7.1: New RF-STABILITY Case dialog
In this dialog you need to fill in the No. (not used so far) and Description of a new case. Af-
ter closing the dialog by clicking the [OK] button, the RF-STABILITY mask 1.1 General Data is
displayed where you define new data for the stability analysis.
26
7 General Functions

Rename RF-STABILITY Case
The description of the stability case can be altered by the command from the RF-STABILITY
main menu
File Rename Case ...
The dialog Rename RF-STABILITY Case opens.

Figure 7.2: Rename RF-STABILITY Case dialog
Copy RF-STABILITY Case
The input data of the current stability case can be copied by the command from the
RF-STABILITY main menu
File Copy Case ...
The dialog Copy RF-STABILITY Case opens where you can specify the number and descrip-
tion of the new case to which the selected case is copied.

Figure 7.3: Copy RF-STABILITY Case dialog
Delete RF-STABILITY Case
You can delete stability cases by the command from the RF-STABILITY main menu
File Delete Case ...
In the Delete Cases dialog you select a certain case from the Available Cases list. This case is
deleted after clicking the [OK] button.

Figure 7.4: The Delete Cases dialog
27

7 General Functions

7.2 Units and Decimal Places
The units and decimal places are centrally set for RFEM and all its add-on modules. In RF-
STABILITY, you open the dialog for setting the units by the command from the main menu
Settings Units and Decimal Places ...
The familiar RFEM dialog opens. The RF-STABILITY module is set by default here.

Figure 7.5: Dialog Units and Decimal Places
The settings can be saved as a user profile and applied in different structures as well. You
find the description of this function in Chapter 12.6.2 of the RFEM manual on page 460.
7.3 Exporting Results
The results of the stability design can be exported to other programs using different ways.
Clipboard
Selected rows in the RF-STABILITY result mask can be copied to the clipboard using the but-
tons [Ctrl]+[C] and then transferred for example to some text processor using [Ctrl]+[V].
The column headings in the mask are not exported.
Printout Report
RF-STABILITY data can be sent to the printout report (cp. Chapter 6.1, page 24) and then be
exported by the command from the main menu
File Export to RTF File or BauText
This function is described in Chapter 11.1.11 on page 363 of the RFEM manual.
28
7 General Functions

Excel
RF-STABILITY includes the direct data export to MS Excel. You call up this function from the
main menu
File Export to MS Excel
The following dialog for data export opens:

Figure 7.6: Export - MS Excel dialog
As soon as you have selected the required parameters, you can start the export by clicking
the [OK] button. It is not necessary to run Excel in the background as it is automatically
started before the export.

Figure 7.7: Results in Excel
29

7 General Functions

RF-IMP
If a certain stability shape is to be used in the add-on module RF-IMP to generate equivalent
imperfections or an equivalent structrue with initial deformation, it is not necessary to ex-
port it. The number of the required eigenvalue and the particular RF-STABILITY case can be
directly selected in the relevant RF-IMP list.

Figure 7.8: Selection of the stability shape and case from RF-STABILITY in the RF-IMP module
RF-KAPPA / RF-TIMBER Pro
In the add-on modules RF-KAPPA and RF-TIMBER Pro you can directly use buckling length
coefficients from RF-STABILITY for designed members.

Figure 7.9: Selection of buckling length coefficients in RF-KAPPA
30
8 Examples

8. Examples

8.1 Square Plate
In this example the critical load due to buckling of a square plate with the side length 1 m is
calculated.

Figure 8.1: FE model and load
Analytical Solution
This surface has hinged supports on all edges. Analytically, you can obtain N
cr
by the fol-
lowing formula:
2 2
3 2
cr
a ) 1 ( 12
h E
k N

=
Equation 8.1
The plate is square-shaped and the length of its sides is 100 cm, hence:
k = 4
a = 100 cm
The plate is made of steel:
E = 21000 kN/cm
2

= 0.3
The surface has the thickness of 2 cm:
h = 2 cm
Thus the critical load due to buckling is calculated as follows:
m
kN
6 . 6073
cm
kN
736 . 60
100 ) 3 . 0 1 ( 12
2 21000
4 N
2 2
3 2
cr
= =

=
31

8 Examples

32
RFEM Solution
The following foundation conditions are defined for the plate in RFEM:

Figure 8.2: Line Supports
In addition, the point supports with low spring stiffness were defined in the nodes 2 and 3
to support the structure in the Y direction.

Figure 8.3: Nodal Supports
The distance among FE mesh points is 5 cm.
The square plate is loaded by the force 1000 kN/m, as you can see in figure 8.1.
8 Examples

You fill in the input mask of RF-STABILITY in this way:

Figure 8.4: RF-STABILITY mask 1.1 General Data
The result of the RF-STABILITY calculation is the critical load factor 6.0455.

Figure 8.5: RF-STABILITY mask 2.1 Critical Load Factors
The critical force is obtained from the critical load factor and the applied load:
m / kN 5 . 6045 m / kN 1000 0455 . 6 N
cr
= =
The deviation from the analytical solution thus makes approximately 0.5 %.
33

8 Examples

RF-STABILITY calculates the following buckling shape:

Figure 8.6: RF-STABILITY - buckling shape
34
8 Examples

8.2 Circular Plate
The critical load due to buckling of a circular plate with the diameter 3 m is calculated.

Analytical Solution
The surface has hinged supports around its circumference. Analytically, the critical force N
cr

can be obtained via the following formula (according to [3], page 559):
2 2
3
cr
a ) 1 ( 12
h E
68 . 14 N

=
Equation 8.2
The plate has the radius 150 cm, hence:
a = 150 cm
The plate is made of steel:
E = 21000 kN/cm
2

= 0.3
The plate has the thickness of 2 cm:
h = 2 cm
For the critical load due to buckling then holds:
35
m
kN
8 . 1003
cm
kN
038 . 10
150 ) 3 . 0 1 ( 12
2 21000
68 . 14 N
2 2
cr
= =

=
3

8 Examples

RFEM Solution
In RFEM, the line support is locally defined for the plate.

Figure 8.8: Line supports
This prevents the rotation of the plate edge. In addition, the plate is supported in the ver-
tical direction. The support in the line x-direction restrains the plate rotation around the
global axis Z.
For the FE mesh, a global target length of 5 cm was set.
The line load of 100 kN/m acts on the plate as you can see in figure 8.7.
You fill in the input mask of RF-STABILITY in this way:



36
8 Examples

The critical force is obtained from the critical load factor and applied load:
m / kN 4 . 1005 m / kN 100 054 . 10 N
cr
= =

The deviation from the analytical solution thus makes approximately 0.2 %.
RF-STABILITY calculates the following buckling shape:

Figure 8.11: RF-STABILITY buckling shape
8.3 Tapered Cantilever
This example was adapted from [4]. In this article the failure shapes and allowable loads of
cantilevered tapered T-girders are analyzed. The calculation via the finite element method is
applied here.
This case represents the girder 1 of table 4.

37

8 Examples

The girder has the following dimensions:
Length l 2800 mm
Web height h
w0
800 mm
Web height h
wl
200 mm
Flange width b 200 mm
Web thickness t
w
10 mm
Flange thickness t
f
20 mm
Tabulka 8.1: Geometrical data of the girder
The line load 1.0 kN/m acts on the tapered girder flange.
The elastic critical force q
cr
= 43.6 kN/m as the calculation result is stated in [4].
RFEM Solution
The following support conditions are defined for the restrained end of the girder:

Figure 8.13: Girder restraint
In addition, the beam tip has a lateral support.
The required distance among the FE mesh points is 4 cm.
The line load 1 kN/m acts on the girder, as you can see in figure 8.12.
38
8 Examples

You fill in the RF-STABILITY input mask in this way:


The critical force is obtained from the critical load factor and applied load:
m / kN 7 . 41 0 . 1 711 . 41 q
cr
= =
The deviation from the solution stated in [4] thus makes approximately 4 %.
RF-STABILITY calculates the following web buckling as the governing failure mode:

Figure 8.16: RF-STABILITY buckling shape
This result completely matches the result in the article [4].

39

Literature

40
A Literature

[1] PETERSEN, Chr.: Statik und Stabilitt der Baukonstruktionen, Verlag Friedrich Vieweg
und Sohn, Braunschweig/Wiesbaden, 2
nd
edition 1982
[2] PETERSEN, Chr.: Stahlbau, Verlag Friedrich Vieweg und Sohn, Braun-
schweig/Wiesbaden, 1988
[3] BARE, R.: Tabulky pro vpoet desek a stn, SNTL Nakladatelstv technick litera-
tury, Prague 1989
[4] FISCHER, M; SMIDA, M: Dimensionierung und Nachweis von gevouteten Kragtrgern
mit T-frmigen Querschitt, in Stahlbau 70. Jahrgang (2001) Heft 12, S. 927-938,
Ernst & Sohn, Berlin

Index
B Index

A
Grid Point ..................................................... 18
I Allowable Load ............................................ 36
Axial Force ..................................................... 9 ICG Iteration Method ..................................... 9
B
Initial Deformation ......................................... 9
Input Mask ..................................................... 8
Buckling Length ........................................... 15
Instability ..................................................... 19
Buckling Length Coefficient ................ 15, 19
Installation ..................................................... 5
Buckling Length s
crit
............................... 15, 16
M Buckling Load .............................................. 16
Magnification Factor .................................... 14 Buckling Shape .......................... 15, 16, 17, 18
Member ....................................................... 15
C
Member Length ............................................ 15
Calculation ................................................... 11
Message ....................................................... 14
Calculation Method ....................................... 9
Module Initialization ...................................... 6
Calculation Parameters ................................ 10
N Calculation Start .......................................... 11
Navigator ....................................................... 8 Check ........................................................... 11
Non-Linear Analysis ...................................... 10 Closing RF-STABILITY...................................... 8
Normed Displacement ............................ 16, 18 Color Spectrum ............................................ 22
P
Comment ..................................................... 10
Control Panel ............................................... 20
Panel .................................................. 7, 20, 22
Critical Buckling Force N
cr
............................ 16
Partial Safety Factor
M
.................................. 9
Critical Load ................................................. 34
Partial Views ................................................. 22
Critical Load ................................................. 30
Print ............................................................. 24
Critical Load Factor .............. 10, 13, 19, 32, 36
Print of Display ............................................. 24
D Printout Report ............................................ 23
R
Decimal Places ............................................. 27
Display Navigator ........................................ 21
Result Diagram ............................................. 24
E Result Masks ................................................ 13
Result Value ................................................. 20 Eigenvalue Number ....................................... 8
Results Navigator ......................................... 20 Eigenvector .................................................. 16
RFEM Work Window .................................... 20 Euler Case .................................................... 15
RF-IMP .......................................................... 29 Evaluation of Results ................................... 19
RF-KAPPA ..................................................... 29 Excel ............................................................ 28
RF-STABILITY Case ........................................ 25 Export of Results .......................................... 27
F
RF-TIMBER Pro .............................................. 29
S Failure via Buckling ................................ 13, 19
Section ............................................. 20, 22, 24 Failure via Plate Buckling ....................... 13, 19
Set of Members ............................................ 20 Filter ............................................................ 22
G
Stability Case .......................................... 25, 26
Stability Shape ....................................... 20, 21
General Data .................................................. 8
Starting RF-STABILITY ..................................... 6
Graphic ........................................................ 20
41

Index
U
Stiffness ......................................................... 9
Stiffness Reduction ........................................ 9
Units ............................................................. 27
Sturm Sequence Test ................................... 12
User Profile ................................................... 27
Subspace Iteration Method ........................... 9
V
T
Vizualization ................................................. 20
Tension Force ........................................... 9, 14

42
Program RF-STABILITY 2009 Dlubal Engineering Software

RF Stability E

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